The pattern of sharing: an investigation of how design can support and encourage sharing of resources and spaces

Abstract

This master thesis is examining how design can enable and contribute to a more sustainable life in our built environment, by presenting opportunities to share resources and spaces in a simple and attractive way in a housing area. The surrounding environment affects our way of life, and the structures of an area that are developed today affect the premises of life for generations to come. The prevailing living standards in this part of the world are contributing to climate change and this way of living has to change. By addressing these issues already in the planning phase, sustainable lifestyles can be made easier. Through communication with Derome (an operative actor working with societal development) this project can be relevant to actual development and connect research and practice. They are now planning a new housing area, Göinge By, placed in the outskirts of Varberg, with the aim to build Sweden’s largest climate-neutral housing area. The thesis question is: How can design support and encourage sharing of resources and spaces in a residential area in Sweden? The thesis consists of several parts but central are the patterns that are presented in the appendix Ett mönsterspråk för delande (A pattern language for sharing). The appendix consists of six patterns, i. e. principles, for sharing of resources and spaces and can be seen as a kind of guide. The patterns are adaptable to different contexts and places’ conditions, but are developed with Göinge By in mind. In the appendix some overall theory is gathered, but above all the patterns The Return Center, Workshop, Office spaces, Laundry, Exchanges and Loans are presented and developed. When the patterns are put together, a system of sharing is established from household level to district and also city level. The patterns are functional when placed alone but are strengthened by coexistence. All patterns presented in A pattern language for sharing have been assembled and tested in a design example in Göinge By.